A major funding boost will see further upgrades to Clarence Way, with Kyogle Council securing $5 million from the Australian Government to continue work on the key regional route.
The funding, delivered through the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program, will be matched with an additional $1.25 million from Council, bringing the total new investment to $6.25 million.
The latest funding will allow for upgrades to a further 3.4 kilometres of Clarence Way, building on the broader $47.2 million upgrade project already underway between Sandilands and Urbenville.
Works will focus on improving road safety and reliability, including drainage improvements, culvert replacements, pavement strengthening and widening the road to a consistent seven-metre bitumen surface. Line marking, signage and other safety measures will also be included.
The upgrade will target sections between Murphys Road and Mills Road at Bean Creek, as well as an additional stretch south of Yabbra Scrub.
Kyogle Council Mayor Danielle Mulholland said the funding was a significant milestone for the long-running project.
“This is the result of some hard work and relentless lobbying, and we are excited to finally be able to put a tick in that box,” Cr Mulholland said.
“There will still be some work to do on the Clarence Way, but Council is committed to lobbying for sufficient funds to finalise the Clarence Way Project.”
She said the completed project would deliver improved access for residents and strengthen the road’s role as a potential alternate freight route connecting Grafton to Queensland.
“Congratulations to the staff and contractors who have undertaken the work on the Clarence Way to date, and a huge thank you to residents who have waited so patiently for this road to be upgraded,” she said.
Bonalbo-based councillor Tom Cooper said the improvements would have practical benefits for the region, particularly as transport costs rise.
“Good roads lead to efficiencies in transport, and with the high cost of fuel now it’s more important than ever that our roads are as good as we can possibly make them for efficient travel,” Cr Cooper said.
Work on the additional sections is expected to begin in early 2027, with Council continuing to seek further funding to complete upgrades along the full length of Clarence Way.
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